Exterior mirror

ABSTRACT

The present application includes a vehicle mirror which includes an approach light in the attachment assembly. The approach light is a single light source positionable in relation to predetermined inputs for directing light to various areas, depending on the inputs. Additionally, an intercom system is provided for communication between the interior of the vehicle and exterior of the vehicle, by way of the vehicle mirror. Also, a remote sensor is utilized to set predetermined memory positions of interior vehicle components such as seats, steering columns and brake pedals. This allows customization of the interior components upon an individual&#39;s approach to the vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to a mirror assembly and moreparticularly to an exterior mirror assembly for a vehicle.

2. Discussion

Due to constraints for shipping vehicles, especially those for largetrucks, mirror assemblies for these vehicles are often times notdesigned with a heavy emphasis on their appearance or functionality. Inshipping vehicles, it is frequently a constraint that the mirrorassemblies can not extend outwardly of any other portion of the vehicle.Accordingly, mirror assemblies were typically designed as flat aspossible so that they could be rotated backward to comply with the aboveshipping constraint.

Construction of the mirror assembly in this manner often resulted in adevice having a generic appearance which did not compliment or accentthe appearance of the vehicle in an aesthetically pleasing manner.Furthermore, it was not possible with such designs to utilize the mirrorassembly for anything other than housing and supporting a reflectiveelement.

With regard to other vehicle features, while some vehicles provideapproach or other lights in order to illuminate the area around thevehicle, particularly with respect to exterior driver and passengerdriver side mirrors, the approach or other lights are typicallyimplemented as one or a number of lights. These lights are typicallyfixed in orientation so that each light merely performs one function.Because these lights only perform one function, utilizing a number oflights translates into a substantial cost increase in the mirrorassembly. Further, because one or a number of lights may be illuminatedat one time, a substantial heat build-up in the air space around thelights limits the heat dissipation. Consequently, an expanded air spacemust be formed around the lights, which increases the overall size ofthe mirror design. Further yet, because these lights are fixed, onelight can only illuminate a certain, predetermined area.

In addition, no mirror assembly has provided any type of audiocommunication between the interior and exterior of the vehicle. Becausethe vehicles are heavily sound-proofed, occupants typically roll downthe window in order to communicate with persons exterior to the vehicle.In some situations, this can present a particular safety hazard when theoccupant rolls down the window to speak with potentially dangerousindividuals. Further, no mirror assembly has typically provided any typeof sound transfer benefit.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is one object of the present invention to provide a mirror assemblywhich pivots in a forward direction to retract the mirror housingsinward from the edges of the vehicle body.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a mirrorassembly which includes a housing assembly having a hinged closuremember which covers an accessory cavity.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mirrorassembly having an accessory attachment point which is adapted tofixedly but reasonably accept a vehicle accessory.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a mirrorassembly with a resilient bump strip coupled to the mirror housingassembly to prevent scuffing and damage to the mirror assembly when themirror assembly is brought into contact with an object.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mirrorassembly having a housing assembly with improved rigidity.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a mirrorassembly which may be fabricated in a modular manner to incorporate oneor more selectively positional mirror orientation mechanisms.

A mirror assembly having a housing assembly, a reflective element, areflective element adjusting mechanism, an attachment assembly and awire harness is provided. The housing assembly includes a housing whichis filled with a structural foam to improve the rigidity of the mirrorassembly, and a scalp which according to one embodiment, may be fixedlybut removably coupled to the housing. Alternatively, the scalp may behingedly coupled to the housing to permit access to a cavity formedtherebetween. The cavity may be used for storing various articles,including a corded light, or may be used to house a switch unit forcontrolling various vehicle electrical components, such as a vehicleradio or various vehicle lights. A resilient bump strip may be coupledto the housing to protect the housing from scuffing or damage thatresults from contact with another object.

Housing assembly houses the reflective element adjusting mechanism andthe reflective element. The attachment assembly is coupled to a vehicleat a first end and to the housing assembly at the second end. Theattachment assembly preferably includes a pair of laterally extendingarms which may be telescoped between a first and second positions tospace the housing assembly further from or closer to the vehicle. Thepair of laterally extending arms are selectively positionable at anoperating position, as well as first and second rotational positions.The first rotational position places the housing against the side of thevehicle proximate a side window. Rotation of the arms in a forwarddirection places into the second rotational position places the housinginward of the sides of the vehicle above the vehicle fenders or hood.

Additional advantages and features of the present invention will becomeapparent from the subsequent description and the appended claims, takenin conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a portion of a vehicle equippedwith a mirror assembly constructed in accordance with the teachings ofthe present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the mirror assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the mirror assembly of FIG. 1illustrating a portion of the first drive mechanism;

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of a portion of the first drivemechanism;

FIG. 5A is an cross-sectional view taken along the line 5A-5A of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5B is an cross-sectional view taken along the line 5B-5B of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5C is an cross-sectional view taken along the line 5C-5C of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the mirror assembly of FIG. 1illustrating a portion of the second drive mechanism;

FIG. 7 is a top view of a portion of the vehicle of FIG. 1 illustratingthe mirror assembly in several positions;

FIG. 8 a is a front perspective of a mirror assembly similar to that ofFIG. 1 illustrating the incorporation of a turn indicator, an accessoryattachment point and a bump strip;

FIG. 8 b is a front perspective of a mirror assembly similar to that ofFIG. 1 illustrating the incorporation of an antenna attachment point tothe sail portion;

FIG. 9 is a front perspective of a mirror assembly similar to that ofFIG. 1 illustrating the incorporation of a marker lamp, a bump strip anda spot light;

FIG. 10 is a front perspective of a mirror assembly similar to that ofFIG. 1 illustrating the incorporation of a spoiler;

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the mirror assembly of FIG. 10illustrating the function of the spoilers;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a portion of a mirror assembly similarto that of FIG. 1 illustrating the incorporation of a power port intothe sail portion;

FIG. 13 is a perspective front view of a mirror assembly similar to thatof FIG. 1 but illustrating a hinged scalp;

FIG. 14 is a perspective front view of a mirror assembly similar to FIG.13 illustrating a compartment for a corded light;

FIG. 15 is a perspective front view of a mirror assembly similar to FIG.13 but illustrating a switching unit;

FIG. 16 is a perspective rear view of a mirror assembly similar to thatof FIG. 1 illustrating the incorporation of a speaker into the housing;and

FIGS. 17A and 17B depicts an exterior, perspective view of a mirrorassembly having a displaceable approach light;

FIG. 18 depicts a vertical cross-section of the displaceable approachlight;

FIG. 19 is an upward, perspective view of the displaceable approachlight;

FIG. 20 is a downward perspective view of the displaceable approachlight and lens assembly;

FIG. 21 is a plan view of a vehicle showing various zones ofillumination of the displaceable approach light;

FIG. 22 is an electrical circuit for operation of displaceable approachlight;

FIGS. 23A and 23B is a perspective view of a mirror assembly having anintercom system;

FIG. 24 is a block diagram of the mirror assembly having an intercomsystem;

FIG. 25 is a block diagram of a control system for a mirror assemblyhaving an intercom;

FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram showing the sensor activated positioningcontrol;

FIG. 27 is a detailed perspective view of the mirror sensor of theassembly of FIG. 26; and

FIG. 28 is a detailed perspective view showing fingerprint sensors in adoor handle in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

With reference to FIGS. 1 through 6 of the drawings, a mirror assemblyconstructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention isgenerally indicated by reference numeral 10 and shown in operativeassociation with a vehicle 12. Although the particular vehicleillustrated is a pick-up truck, it will be understood that the teachingsof the present invention have applicability to other types of vehicles,and as such, will not be limited in application to pick-up trucks.Furthermore, although mirror assembly 10 is illustrated and describedherein as an exterior drivers side rear view mirror which enables thevehicle operator to view an area beside and rearward of vehicle 12, itwill be understood that a passengers side rear view mirror may besimilarly constructed.

Mirror assembly 10 includes a housing assembly 14, a reflective element16, a reflective element adjusting means (not shown), an attachmentassembly 20, a first drive mechanism 22, a second drive mechanism 24 anda wire harness 26. Wire harness 26 couples the vehicle electrical systemto each of the various electrical devices in mirror assembly 10. Housingassembly 14 includes a housing 30 and a scalp 32. Housing 30 ispreferably unitarily formed from a molded plastic material and includesa conventional attaching means which is employed to fixedly butremovably couple the reflective element adjusting means to housing 30.Housing 30 also houses and supports reflective element 16.

With brief reference to FIGS. 8 a and 9, a bump strip 34 formed from asoft and resilient material such as rubber or vinyl, may be included onone or more of the exterior surfaces of housing 30 to prevent housing 30from being scuffed or damaged in the event that it contacts an object.With specific reference to FIG. 8 a, bump strip 34 may be contoured orstyled in a decorative manner which enhances the appearance of mirrorassembly 10. Bump strip 34 preferably covers the forward most andoutward most points of housing 30 to ensure that bump strip 34 ratherthan housing 30 will contact objects first. Bump strip 34 is preferablycoupled to housing 30 and/or scalp 32 via double-sided adhesive tape.

Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2, scalp 32 is also preferably unitarilyformed from a molded plastic material. Preferably, a plurality ofconventional snap-fasteners are molded into housing 30 and scalp 32which permits them to be fixedly but removably coupled to one anotherwithout the use of threaded fasteners. Alternatively, scalp 32 may befixedly coupled to housing 30 with a double-sided adhesive tape. Withadditional reference to FIG. 3, housing 30 and scalp 32 are shown tocooperate to form a cavity 36 which is completely filled with astructural foam 38. Structural foam 38 is preferably a closed-cellpolyurethane foam.

Due to the relative ease with which scalp 32 may be coupled to housing30, scalp 32 may be configured in a manner which enhances the decorativeappearance of mirror assembly. For example, scalp 32 may be molded froma colored plastic or painted so as to either match or accent the colorof vehicle 12. As another example, a decorative design may be moldedinto the exterior surface 40 of scalp 32.

The reflective element adjusting means is fixedly but removably coupledto housing 30. Preferably, the reflective element adjusting means is anelectronically or manually controlled adjusting mechanism that is wellknown in the art and which permits the position of the reflectiveelement 16 to adjusted from the passenger compartment of vehicle 12.Alternatively, the reflective element adjusting means is a manuallycontrolled adjusting mechanism that is well known in the art which isactuated by a force directed to reflective element 16.

Reflective element 16 is preferably fixedly but removably coupled to thereflective element adjusting means, and as such is selectivelypositionable relative to housing 30. In the preferred embodiments of thepresent invention, reflective element 16 is fabricated from mirror glasswhich may be heated and/or may include other characteristics such aselectrochromic properties and hydrophobic or hydrophilic coatings.Reflective element 16 may also be constructed in a manner which permitsit to be readily removed from the reflective element adjusting means forservicing of mirror assembly 10 and/or and replacement of reflectiveelement 16.

Housing assembly 14 is coupled to attachment assembly 20. In theparticular embodiment illustrated, attachment assembly 20 includes asail portion 50, first and second arms 52 and 54, respectively, and anapproach light 56. Sail portion 50 is attached to vehicle 12 viathreaded posts or other conventional connectors. A seal is typicallyinterposed between sail portion 50 and vehicle 12 to isolate theinterior of vehicle 12 from moisture, dirt and noise.

Each of the first and second arms 52 and 54 include a first laterallyextending structure 60 and a second laterally extending structure 62.The first and second laterally extending structures 60 and 62 may bemoved in an axial direction relative to one another to permit first andsecond arms 52 and 54 to telescope inwardly toward vehicle 12 oroutwardly therefrom. In the particular embodiment illustrated, firstlaterally extending structure 60 is fixedly coupled to housing assembly14 and second laterally extending structure 62 is coupled to sailportion 50.

With reference to FIG. 3, each of the first laterally extendingstructures 60 preferably includes a first cover member 70 and a firsttubular member 72 and each of the second laterally extending structures62 includes a second cover member 74 and a second tubular member 76. Thefirst and second tubular members 72 and 76 are preferably formed atleast partially from a square or rectangular tubing.

First tubular member 72 is sized to slidingly receive second tubularmember 76. The interior surface of second cover member 74 is spacedapart from second tubular member 76 to permit sliding engagement betweenfirst and second tubular members 72 and 76. The interior surface offirst cover member 70 is spaced apart from first tubular member 72 topermit sliding engagement between first and second cover members 70 and74. As the function of the first and second cover members 70 and 74 isprimarily cosmetic, they may have cross-sections that are round, square,rectangular, elliptical or any other desired shape.

Each of the second laterally extending structures 62 is disposed atleast partially within a respective first laterally extending structure60. The first and second laterally extending structures 60 and 62 may bemoved in an axial direction relative to one another to permit first andsecond arms 52 and 54 to telescope inwardly toward vehicle 12 oroutwardly therefrom. A pair of first rollers 80 are coupled to secondtubular member 76 and extend through slots 82 formed in its rearsidewall 84. First rollers 80 are journally supported by a pin 86 forrotation about an axes that are perpendicular to the axis of the firstand second arms 52 and 54. A second roller 90 is coupled to an oppositeside of second tubular member 76 and extends through a slot 92 formed inits front sidewall 94. Second roller 90 is also journally supported by apin 96 for rotation about another axis that is perpendicular to the axisof the first and second arms 52 and 54. Pin 96 is disposed in a slot 98formed in second tubular member 76. A spring 100 is coupled to secondtubular member 76 and is operable for urging pin 96 in a direction awayfrom the first rollers 80 and against the inner surface of the firsttubular member 72. Each set of first and second rollers 80 and 90cooperate to control relative movement between the first and secondlaterally extending structures 60 and 62 in non-axial directions.Structural foam 38 retains first laterally extending structure 60 tohousing assembly 14 while providing structural support to inhibit theflexing of the first and second arms 52 and 54 relative to one another.

First drive mechanism 22 is operable for telescoping first and secondarms 52 and 54 between an extended position and a retracted position.First drive mechanism 22 may be configured in a manner similar to thatdisclosed in commonly assigned Australian Provisional Patent ApplicationSerial No. PP8619 filed Feb. 9, 1999 entitled “Means For Extending OrRetracting Telescopic Tubes”, which is hereby incorporated by referenceas if fully set forth herein.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3 through 5C, first drive mechanism 22is illustrated as including a motor assembly 110, an intermediate wormstructure 112 and upper and lower worm structures 114 and 116. Motorassembly 110 includes a conventional reversible dc motor 120 and a driveworm 122 which is coupled for rotation with the output shaft of motor120. The housing of motor 120 is fixedly coupled to housing assembly andthe output shaft of motor 120 is oriented along an axis parallel to theaxes of the first and second arms 52 and 54.

Intermediate worm structure 112 includes an intermediate worm gear 126and first and second intermediate worm drives 128 and 130. Intermediateworm structure 112 is coupled to housing assembly 14 for rotation aboutan axis perpendicular to the axis of the output shaft of motor 120 suchthat intermediate worm gear 126 meshingly engages drive worm 122.

Upper and lower worm structures 114 and 116 are similar in construction,and as such, only upper worm structure 114 will be discussed in detail.Upper worm structure 114 includes a worm gear 136, a lead screw 138 anda drive member 140. Worm gear 136 meshingly engages first intermediateworm drive 128. A ball bearing 144 and a preload spring assembly 146cooperate to align worm gear 136 to first intermediate worm drive 128.Worm gear 136 and lead screw 138 are coupled for rotation with oneanother. Lead screw 138 includes a externally threaded surface 148 whichis rotatably supported by first tubular member 72 along the axisparallel to the axis of first arm 52. Drive member 140 includes aninternally threaded surface (not shown) which meshingly engages theexternally threaded surface 148 of lead screw 138. Drive member 140 isfixedly coupled to the upper and lower surfaces of second tubular member76.

Rotation of the output shaft of motor 120 therefore causes lead screws138 to rotate in a corresponding direction which exerts a force onto thedrive members 140 to cause the first tubular members 72 to telescopeinwardly to or outwardly from their corresponding second tubular members76.

Second drive mechanism 24 is illustrated in FIG. 6 as including a driveand clutch system 160 which are similar to the drive and clutch systemdisclosed in commonly assigned co-pending U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/085,708 entitled “Mirror Parking System”, which is herebyincorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. Accordingly,this aspect of mirror assembly 10 will not be discussed in detail, otherthan noting that a powered worm 162 meshingly engages a worm gear 164.newly

Unlike the above reference drive mechanism, second drive mechanism 24 isshown to include a shaft 170 which is fixed for rotation with worm gear164. First and second pinions 172 and 174, respectively, are coupled toeither end of shaft 170 and fixed for rotation thereon. First and secondpinions 172 and 174 are meshingly engaged with a respective drive gear176 which is supported for rotation about a pivot pin 178. Drive gear176 a is coupled for rotation with first arm 52 and drive gear 176 b iscoupled for rotation with second arm 54. Accordingly, rotation ofpowered worm 162 is operable for rotating shaft 170 to cause first andsecond arms 52 and 54 to rotate simultaneously in a desired direction.

First and second drive mechanisms 22 and 24 may be coupled to aprogrammable controller 200 which permits the vehicle operator to storea given mirror orientation to memory. The mirror orientation may includeinformation on the position of reflective element 16, as well as thetelescopic and rotational positions of housing assembly 14 relative tosail portion 50. Retrieval of the stored mirror orientation causescontroller to actuate the first and second drive mechanisms 22 and 24,and the reflective element adjusting means as necessary to adjust thereflective element to the stored mirror orientation.

Alternatively, one or both of the power drive mechanisms may be omittedcompletely thereby rendering mirror assembly 10 fixing the position ofhousing assembly 14 relative to vehicle 12. Also alternatively, one orboth of the power drive mechanisms may be omitted with a manuallyactuated mechanism substituted therefor. To control the telescopingmovement, a plurality of friction shoes are incorporated into the firstand second arms 52 and 54 to provide resistance to their telescopicmovement during the operation of vehicle 12. Similarly, to controlrotational movement of housing assembly 14, attachment assembly 20 maybe fitted with a detents mechanism having a plurality of detents whichfixedly but reasonably restrain first and second arms 52 and 54 in adesired orientation.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, mirror assembly 10 is selectively positionablebetween a rearward retracted position 190, an operational position 192and a forward-retracted position 194. Mirror assembly 10 isconventionally maintained in the operational position 192 until suchtime as vehicle 12 is required to approach an object near one or more ofits lateral sides. At such time, mirror assembly 10 may then be rotatedforward or rearward. Placement of mirror assembly 10 into the rearwardretracted position 190 positions housing assembly 14 against the lateralside of vehicle 12 such that housing assembly 14 is proximate the sidewindow. Positioning mirror assembly 10 in this manner may be best suitedwhere vehicle 12 is being operated in a forward direction and it isdesirable to protect the mirror assembly from forward impacts, such aswhen traveling through overgrown trails. This position, however, tendsto interfere with the vehicle occupant's ability to move their hands orsee through the side window of vehicle, as when at automatic tellermachines or the drive-through windows of fast-food restaurants.

In situations such as this, mirror assembly 10 may advantageously beoriented to its forward-rotated position 194 to substantially clear thearea proximate the side window of the vehicle 12. This position is alsoadvantageous in that the housing assembly 14 is positioned substantiallyinward of the lateral side of vehicle 12, thereby permitting housingassembly 14 to be relatively deep in comparison to similar mirrors whichcan only be rotated to a rearward rotated position 190. Consequently,housing 30 and scalp 32 need not be designed in a relatively flatmanner, but may be extended to address aesthetic and aerodynamic issues.

Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2, approach light 56 includes a controller 200,a reflector housing 202 and a lens 204 and a plurality of lamps 206.Illumination of lamp 206 a causes an area adjacent vehicle 12 andforward of mirror assembly 10 to be illuminated. Illumination of lamp206 b causes an area adjacent vehicle 12 and below mirror assembly to beilluminated. Illumination of lamp 206 c causes an area adjacent vehicle12 and rearward of mirror assembly 10 to be illuminated. Illumination oflamp 206 d causes an area lateral to mirror assembly 10 to beilluminated. Controller 200 is operable for selectively illuminating oneor more of the lamps 206 upon the occurrence of a predeterminedcondition. For example, actuation of a remote keyless entry device or apower lock switch on one of the vehicle doors causes all of the lamps toilluminate so as to illuminate an area around vehicle 12 to aid in theingress to and egress from vehicle 12. Actuation of the vehicle turnsignal lever to turn left, for example, causes lamp 206 a to illuminateto provide the vehicle operator with an illuminated view of the area towhich vehicle 12 is being turned. Placement of the vehicle gear selectorinto a reverse gear ratio causes lamp 206 c to illuminate, providing thevehicle operator with an illuminated view of an area to the side andbehind vehicle 12. Controller 200 preferably includes a remote lightswitch 208 which permits one or more of the lamps 206 to be illuminatedas desired.

Alternatively, approach light 56 may be configured in a manner similarto that disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent to AndrewJ. Assinder entitled “Exterior Mirror Having An Attachment MemberIncluding An Approach Light” which is hereby incorporated by referenceas if fully set forth herein.

Other light devices may similarly be incorporated into mirror assembly10, either in addition to approach light 56 or in substitution thereof.A first example is illustrated in FIG. 8 where a turn indicator 210 isshown coupled to housing 30. Turn indicator 210 may be placed on mirrorassembly 10 so as to face in a rearward direction, a sideward directionor both a rearward and a sideward direction. Turn indicator 210 isconventional in its operation in that its actuation is controlled by thevehicle turn signal lever.

A second example is illustrated in FIG. 9 where a side marker 212 iscoupled to housing 30. Side marker 212 may be conventionally operated toilluminate when the vehicle parking lights or vehicle head lights areilluminated. Side marker 212 may also be operated to illuminate whenvehicle 12 is locked or unlocked and thereafter turned off when vehicle12 is started or after a predetermined time.

A third example is further illustrated in FIG. 9 wherein mirror assembly10 is shown to include a spot light 214. Spot light 214 is movablycoupled to attachment assembly 20 and located between the first andsecond arms 52 and 54. Spot light 214 includes a first portion 216 whichis fixedly coupled to scalp 50 and a second portion 218 which isselectively positionable relative to first portion 216 via a controlmechanism (not shown) which is preferably actuatable from the interiorof vehicle 12. The control mechanism may be a manual handle or may beelectronically controlled. Preferably, the second portion is gimbaled tothe first portion, permitting second portion 218 to focus light in apredetermined area.

Attachment assembly 20 may also be fitted with various otheraccessories, such as a spoiler. In FIG. 10, attachment assembly 20 isshown to be fitted with a first spoiler 230 and a second spoiler 232.First spoiler 230 is coupled to the first laterally extending structures60 so as to be fixed in relation to housing 30. Second spoiler 232 iscoupled to the second laterally extending structures 62 so as to befixed in relation to the vehicle side window. As shown in FIG. 11, firstspoiler 230 is configured to deflect a first air flow 236 acrossreflective element 16 to clear its exterior surface of water and/orcontamination. Similarly, second spoiler 232 is configured to deflect asecond air flow 238 across the side window to clear it of water and/orcontamination. First and second spoilers 230 and 232 may be integrallyformed into housing 30 and sail portion 50, respectively, or mayseparately manufactured permitting them to be supplied to consumers asan after-market product.

An accessory attachment point 240 may be provided in attachment assembly20 or housing assembly 14. As illustrated in FIG. 8 a, accessoryattachment point 240 is integrated into sail portion 50 and permitsvarious accessories, such as flags 242 and pennants of variouscollegiate or professional sports teams to be fixedly but removablycoupled to mirror assembly 10.

Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 8 b, an antenna attachment point 246may also be integrated into mirror assembly 10. Antenna attachment point246 permits an antenna 248 for one or more of the vehicle radio, awireless phone and a remote keyless entry device to be coupled to mirrorassembly 10. This embodiment is advantageous in that it provides anantenna connection for the desired device without forming a hole in thesheet metal body of vehicle 12. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 16,antenna 248 may be completely disposed within cavity 36 in housingassembly 14. In the particular embodiment illustrated, antenna 248 a iscoupled to the vehicle radio, antenna 248 b is coupled to a wirelessphone and antenna 248 c is operable for receiving a remoteunlocking/locking signal which is typically generated by a remotekeyless entry device.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, another feature that may be integrated intomirror assembly 10 is a power port 250 which uses the electrical systemof vehicle 12 to power various accessories, such as hand-held spotlights. A plug assembly 252 having a resilient seal 254 is used to closethe cavity of power port 250 to prevent infiltration of water and dirttherein.

FIGS. 13 through 15 illustrate yet another alternative construction ofmirror assembly 10. Scalp 32 is shown to be hingedly coupled to housing30, permitting scalp 32 to be pivoted between a closed positionsubstantially closing the open end of housing 30, and an open positionsubstantially clearing the open end of housing 30. A cavity 260 isformed between scalp 32 and housing 30 which may be used to conceal apower port 250 or to store various items, such as replacement lamps 262,fuses 264 and/or tools such as a pressure gauge 266 and screwdrivers268. A lock mechanism 270 is incorporated into scalp 32 which ispositionable in a locked condition inhibiting the movement of scalp 32from the closed position to the open position, and an unlocked conditionpermitting the movement of scalp 32 from the closed position to the openposition.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, cavity 260 may be used for storing a cordedlamp 280. Corded lamp 280 includes a housing 282, a lens 284, a lamp 286and a cord portion 288. Cord portion 288 is electrically coupled to theelectrical system of vehicle 12, permitting corded lamp 280 to be movedrelative to mirror assembly 10 to provide light to a remote area, aswhen changing a tire or when examining the engine compartment or bottomside of vehicle 12.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, a switching unit 290 may additionally oralternatively be placed into cavity 260. Switching unit 290 is coupledto various vehicle electrical devices to permit them to be remotelycontrolled from outside vehicle 12. In the example provided, switchingunit 290 includes a set of first controls 292 which are operable forremotely controlling the vehicle radio and a set of second controls 294which are operable for remotely controlling various vehicle lights.First controls 292 may be actuated to turn the vehicle radio on or off,select a signal medium (e.g., radio signal, cassette tape, compact disc)or adjust various settings such as playback volume, balance, tone.Preferably, first controls 292 are identical in configuration andfunction to any controls for the vehicle radio which are contained inthe vehicle interior. Second controls 294 includes a plurality ofswitches which may be actuated, either individually or in combination,to illuminate various vehicle lamps. Second controls 294 permits, forexample, the vehicle hazard lights to be actuated from the exterior ofvehicle 12 as well as an auxiliary light to be illuminated to permit anarea of vehicle 12 to be illuminated, as when changing a tire.

One or more audio speakers may also be integrated into mirror assembly10. As illustrated in FIG. 16, an audio speaker 300 is integrated intohousing 30. Audio speaker 300 may be coupled to the vehicle radio topermit the playback of music and other programs outside of vehicle 12.Audio speaker 300 may additionally or alternatively be coupled to amicrophone inside vehicle 12, permitting the vehicle occupants tobroadcast messages to persons outside vehicle 12. Audio speaker 300 mayadditionally or alternatively be configured as a siren to produce awarning signal to alert persons to the presence of vehicle 12. Alsoalternatively, audio speaker 300 may be integrated into attachmentassembly 20 in sail portion 50 or to a bracket (not shown) which iscoupled to first and second arms 52 and 54.

As discussed above, it is often desirable to provide a single approachlight which is displaceable in order to fully illuminate a desired areaaround the vehicle. FIGS. 17-21 show a mirror assembly 410 arranged inaccordance with the principles of the present invention. Mirror assembly410 is substantially arranged as described above with respect to FIGS.1-16 and can incorporate any of the features as described with respectto FIGS. 1-16. In general, mirror assembly 410 attaches to vehicle 412.Mirror assembly 410 includes a housing assembly 414, a reflectiveelement (not shown), a reflective element adjusting means (not shown),and an attachment assembly 420. Housing assembly 414 includes a housing416 and an optional scalp 418. Housing 416 is preferably formed asdescribed above. Housing 416 also houses and supports the reflectiveelement. As mentioned, mirror assembly 410 can include any or all of thefeatures described above with respect to FIGS. 1-16.

A particular aspect of this invention will be described with respect toFIGS. 17-20. Mirror assembly 410 includes an adjustable approach lightassembly 422. Approach light assembly 422 is embodied as a singleapproach light which is adjustable in order to illuminate various areaswith respect to the vehicle. With reference to FIGS. 18-20, approachlight assembly 422 is integrally formed with attachment assembly 420.Approach light assembly 422 includes a housing 424 formed withinattachment assembly 420. Housing 424 supports upper post 426 and lowerpost 428. Reflector 430 includes upper mounting tab 432 and lowermounting tab 434. Upper mounting tab 432 and lower mounting tab 434attach to respective posts 426, 428, and define a pivot axis forreflector 430.

Reflector 430 supports a light source 436, such as an incandescent bulbor light emitting diode (LED). Light from light source 436 reflects offreflector 430 and is projected generally outwardly away from the vehiclethrough optical lens element 438 and transparent cover 440. In aparticular feature of the present invention, lens 438 may beincorporated integrally with cover 440 to define a unitary lens/coverassembly. Lens 438 also may provide different optical outputs dependingupon the rotational position of reflector 430.

Spotter light assembly 422 also includes a drive system 446. Drivesystem 446 includes a drive motor 448. Drive motor 448 displaces anoutput member 450 which engages, either directly or indirectly,reflector 430 in order to rotate reflector 430 about the pivot axisdefined by upper and lower mounting tabs 332, 334. Drive member 450 maybe embodied as a belt and pulley, gear, or other mechanicalinterconnection system. It should be recognized that a similar drivesystem to drive system 448 may be arranged to enable rotational movementabout a horizontal axis in order to provide both horizontal and verticalmovement of reflector 430, thereby further enhancing the scope coverageof approach light assembly 422.

FIG. 21 depicts a plan view of vehicle 412 and mirror assembly 410. FIG.21 is particularly adapted to show various zones of coverage ofdisplaceable approach light assembly 422. Approach light assembly 422covers a first zone, zone 1, which may generally be described as aforward zone having a 30 degrees sweep and a two meter range. Approachlight assembly 422 also covers a second zone, zone 2, in which approachlight assembly 422 acts as an adjustable light to provide an overallsweep of 120 degrees and six meters distance from the vehicle. Approachlight assembly 422 also includes a third zone, zone three, which may beutilized during reversing maneuvers and covers a thirty degree sweep anda four meter distance from mirror assembly 410. A fourth zone, zone fouroperates as an approach light providing a zone in close proximity to thevehicle having a longitudinal length of two meter and a transverselength of approximately one meter with respect to mirror assembly 410.

FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a control circuit 456 for operatingapproach light assembly 422. In particular, controller 458 receivesseveral inputs and motor commands to one or a pair of motors 460 and462. For example, motor 460 may be embodied as a horizontal displacementmotor, and motor 462 may be embodied as a vertical displacement motor.Controller 458 receives input from several sensors, including a turnindicator sensor 464, a approach light control sensor 466, a shiftselect sensor 468, a lock sensor 470, and a FOB tracker sensor 472. Thesensors 464-472 provide input signals to controller 458 which thengenerates motor control commands output to motors 460, 462.

The sensors 464-472 and controller 458 cooperate to select several modesof operation. In the first mode of operation, approach light assembly422 illuminates the front and side of the vehicle, zone 1, duringturning maneuvers. In this position, approach light assembly 422 shieldslight from oncoming drivers by directing it downward. Such positioningof approach light assembly 422 can occur automatically by sensingactivation of a turns signal through turn signal sensor 464. In a secondmode of operation, approach light assembly 422 illuminates zone 2 asdescribed in FIG. 21. Because approach light assembly may be displacedto fully cover zone 2, such displacement may be manually or remotelycontrolled. Accordingly, spot controller 466 enables the vehicleoccupant to manually displace approach light assembly 422 by providingcontrol commands to controller 458 which in turn generates controlcommands to motors 460, 462.

In a third mode of operation, approach light assembly illuminates zone3, such as may occur during reversing maneuvers. Shift sensor select 468detects reverse positioning of the shift selector and generates a signalto controller 458, causing motors 460, 462 to direct approach light 422to cover zone 3.

Approach light assembly 422 includes a fourth mode of operation forcovering zone 4 by reflecting a portion of light down from a forwardturn position, such as for zone 1, or an auxiliary position when theremote unlock position is actuated by an approaching driver.Accordingly, lock sensor 470 provides an input to controller 458 fordetermining the position of vehicle locks 470. Further, sensor 470 mayalso detect input from a key FOB to cause approach light assembly 422 tocover zone 4 on activation by an approaching driver.

In a fifth mode of operation, a FOB tracker sensor 472 detectsactivation of the remote keyless entry system and tracks the position ofa FOB. FOB tracker 472 outputs signals to controller 458 to enablemotors 460, 462 to displace approach light assembly 422 so as tocontinuously track the key FOB. Such a feature effectively provides aconstant illumination for an individual approaching a vehicle 412 with akey FOB.

The system of FIGS. 17-22 provides several advantages over multi-lightsystems. Particularly, only one light source is used instead of three orfour. The approach light is adjusted by mechanical means by performingdifferent functions and by passing through different, position-specificoptics and pointing in different positions. This reduces the overallcosts of the assembly. The subject invention also increases the worstcase heat tolerance because only one light at a time can be illuminated,rather than the four lights that can be illuminated in multi-lightsystems. Thus, the air space and the surface area of the entire space isavailable for heat dissipation of merely one light. Such a featureenables a more compact design to be implemented, and enables a greaterintensity of light output over a multiple-light system. Further, themanually adjustable feature enables flexibility and lighting a varietyof objects within the adjustment range of the approach light assembly.

FIG. 23 depicts mirror assembly 480 arranged in accordance with theprinciples of yet another embodiment of the present invention. Mirrorassembly 480 attaches to a vehicle 482. Mirror assembly 480 is generallyas described above with respect to FIGS. 1-22 and can include one or allof the above-described features. In particular, mirror assembly 480includes a housing assembly 484 and an attachment assembly 486 forattaching mirror assembly 480 to mirror 482. Housing assembly 484includes a housing 488 which supports reflective elements 490, 492. Asmentioned, mirror assembly 480 may incorporate one or all of thefeatures of the design embodiments of FIGS. 1-22.

Mirror assembly 480 is particularly directed to disclosing an intercomsystem 494 which facilitates communication between the vehicle interiorand exterior when the vehicle doors are closed and the windows areclosed as well. As shown in FIG. 24, in the most basic embodiment,intercom system 494 includes a microphone 496 which receives audio inputsound and generates electrical signals into mirror assembly/intercom498. Mirror assembly/intercom 498 is configured within attachmentassembly 486 so that a portion of intercom system 494 resides within thevehicle 482 and a portion resides exterior to the vehicle 482. Mirrorassembly/intercom 498 with respect to the intercom, operates as aconventional intercom, many of which are known in the art.Mirror/intercom assembly 498 generates an output signal to speaker 500which generates an audio output. As shown in FIG. 24, a switch 502 maybe used to activate and deactivate system 494. Alternatively, a voiceactivated system can be used to eliminate switch 502.

FIG. 25 depicts a block diagram of an intercom control system 506.Intercom control system 506 includes a controller/intercom 508 whichreceives a number of input signals. The signals are generated by one ora plurality of electrical sensors. In particular, a door/window sensor510 generates a signal indicating whether the vehicle doors or windows,particularly in proximity to intercom system 594, are open or closed. Ashift select lever 512 generates an input signal to controller/intercom508 in accordance with the position of a shift select lever. Amicrophone 514 operates as a conventional microphone and converts audiosignals into electrical signals which are input to controller/intercom508. A manual switch 516 operates as manual switch 502 as described withrespect to FIG. 24. In particular, intercom control system 506 may bevoice operated or may alternatively be manually operated. Manual switch516 enables operation of the intercom. A warning sensor 522 connects toother vehicle systems and generates signals in accordance with varioussystem warnings, such as low battery, keys left in car, door open orunlocked. A cell phone input 524 provides an electrical signal to enableexterior broadcasting of a cell phone conversation.

Controller/intercom 508 receives the input signals and generates anelectrical signal to speaker 518 to generate acoustic output.

With reference to FIG. 25, several features of intercom control system506 will be described. In particular, intercom control system 506implements an interlock circuit in controller/intercom 508 whichoperates in conjunction with the position of the vehicle doors andwindows as output by doors/window sensor 510. If a door or window isopen, controller/intercom 508 can disable the intercom system completelyor utilize circuitry to eliminate or reduce feedback while the door orwindow is open.

In another feature of the present invention, shift select sensor 512 cangenerate an output signal to controller/intercom 508 to indicate avehicle reverse mode. In such a mode, controller/intercom 508 maygenerate a buzzer, beeper, or other signaling tone to warn of animpending vehicle reverse. Further, the intercom can be tied to andoperate in conjunction with an approach light 520 to provide someaudible output upon activation of the approach light as an addedsecurity feature.

Referring now to FIGS. 26-27, there is illustrated a further feature ofthe present invention. As seen in FIG. 26, a vehicle interior generallyshown at 600 includes power adjustable seat bottom 602, power adjustableseat back 604, power adjustable head rest 606, power adjustable steeringcounsel 608, power adjustable side view mirror 610, and power adjustablepedals 612. An audio sensor 614 may be provided in the mirror 610 forsensing the approach of a specific individual. While sensor 614 is shownin the said attachment portion, the sensor is alternatively positionedin the mirror housing itself. Each of the components, 608, 606, 604, 602and 610, are connected to memory module in the vehicle for at leastchanging one of the positions to a predetermined position, which isbased on the previously programmed position of an occupant or user ofthe vehicle.

A control module 616 is connected to the control of each of thesecomponents to provide adjustment of an interior component, such as aseatback, a seat bottom, and the like, for response to individualistinput received by the sensor 614. The controller has a memory featurewherein one or a plurality of individual positions of the poweradjustable components is stored. This allows individual drivers orpassengers to have the seat, pedal or other components returned to thedesired position. Such systems are known in the art and used in luxuryvehicles. As set forth above, the sensor may be a voice recognition-typesensor, which acts in conjunction with the controller to providepredetermined memory positions for the driver or passenger whoseindividual voice is used for opening the vehicle. In an alternateembodiment, shown in FIG. 27, a sensor (or plurality of sensors) 618 maybe provided in the door handle 620 or the like. The sensor utilizes areceiver having individualistic frequency, such as a ring transmitter.The transmitter emits an individualistic code when in close proximity,resets all of the positioning components in the vehicle to the sensor.Alternatively, the sensor could be a fingerprint-type sensor whichimmediately scans the fingerprint of the user and provide theindividualistic settings which have been preset for that user. As willbe readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, otherindividualistic coated sensors may be utilized to provide theindividualistic positioning of the stored positions for a particularuser of the vehicle.

While the invention has been described in the specification andillustrated in the drawings with reference to a preferred embodiment, itwill be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes maybe made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention as defined herein. Inaddition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situationor material to the teachings of the invention without departing from theessential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the inventionnot be limited to the particular embodiment illustrated by the drawingsand described in the specification as the best mode presentlycontemplated for carrying out this invention.

1-32. (canceled)
 33. A vehicle mirror comprising: a housing; areflective element provided in said housing; an attachment assembly forattaching said housing to a vehicle; at least one telescopic armextending between said housing and said attachment assembly, whereinsaid at least one arm pivotally connected to said attachment assembly.34. The vehicle mirror of claim 33 wherein at least one telescopic armcomprises a first lateral structure and a second lateral extendingstructure, wherein said first lateral structure and said second lateralstructure are moveable in an axial direction relative to one another toprovide a telescoping action.
 35. The vehicle mirror of claim 34 whereinsaid first lateral structure is fixedly coupled to said housing assemblyand said second lateral structure is coupled to said mirror attachmentassembly, wherein said second lateral structure telescopes in and out ofsaid first lateral structure.
 36. The vehicle mirror of claim 33 whereinsaid first lateral structure is fixedly coupled to said mirrorattachment assembly and said second lateral structure is fixedly coupledto said housing, wherein said first lateral structure telescopes in andout of said second lateral structure.
 37. The vehicle mirror of claim 33wherein said first lateral structure has a first cover member and afirst tubular member and said second lateral structure have a secondcover member and a second tubular member.
 38. The vehicle mirror ofclaim 37 wherein said first cover member and said second member areconfigured to telescope in and out of each other.
 39. A vehicle mirrorcomprising: a housing; a reflective element provided in said housing; anattachment assembly for attaching said housing to a vehicle; atelescopic arm extending between said housing and said attachmentassembly, wherein said telescopic arm has a first tubular memberconnected to said attachment assembly configured to slidingly receive asecond tubular member connected to said housing.
 40. The vehicle mirrorof claim 39 wherein said telescopic arm further comprises a first covermember spaced apart and extending parallel to said first tubular memberand a second cover member spaced apart and extending parallel saidsecond tubular member.
 41. The vehicle mirror of claim 40 wherein theinterior surface of said first cover member is spaced apart from saidfirst tubular member to permit sliding engagement between said firstcover member and said second cover member.
 42. The vehicle mirror ofclaim 39 further comprising one or more rollers coupled to said secondtubular member, wherein said one or more rollers facilitate the slidingof said first and second tubular members.
 43. The vehicle mirror ofclaim 39 further comprising a drive mechanism having a motor assemblycoupled to a worm structure that is rotatably coupled to a drive memberthat is fixedly coupled to said first tubular member, wherein said wormstructure rotates to move said drive member and said first tubularmember along the axis of said first tubular member.
 44. The vehiclemirror of claim 43 further comprising a programmable controller coupledto said drive mechanism which permits storage of information pertainingto the position of said reflective element, wherein said reflectiveelement can be automatically returned to a position based upon theposition information stored on said programmable controller.
 45. Thevehicle mirror of claim 39 wherein said housing and said telescope armpivot with respect to said attachment assembly.
 46. A vehicle mirrorcomprising: a housing; a reflective element provided in said housing; anattachment assembly for attaching said housing to a vehicle; a firsttelescopic arm extending between said housing and said attachmentassembly; a second telescopic arm extending between said housing andsaid attachment assembly wherein said first and second telescopic armseach have a first tubular member connected to said attachment assemblyand configured to slidingly receive a second tubular member connected tosaid housing.
 47. The vehicle mirror of claim 46 further comprising: afirst drive mechanism coupled to said first telescopic arm, wherein saidfirst drive mechanism is configured to cause said first tubular memberto slide with respect to said second tubular member; a second drivemechanism coupled to said second telescopic arm, wherein said seconddrive mechanism is configured to cause said first tubular member toslide with respect to said second tubular member; and an intermediatedrive connected to both said first drive mechanism and said second drivemechanism wherein said intermediate drive mechanism actuates said firstdrive mechanism and said second drive mechanism.
 48. The vehicle mirrorof claim 47 wherein said first drive mechanism and said second drivemechanism each have a worm gear operably engaged to said intermediatedrive; a threaded lead screw connected to said worm gear, wherein saidthreaded lead screw is rotatably supported by said first tubular member,and a drive member connected to said first tubular member, wherein saiddrive member has a threaded surface that engages and mates with saidthreaded lead screw.
 49. The vehicle mirror of claim 48 wherein saidintermediate drive mechanism comprises: an intermediate worm gear; afirst intermediate worm drive connected to said intermediate worm gearand operably engaged to said worm gear of said first drive mechanism; asecond intermediate worm drive operably connected to said intermediateworm gear and engaged to said worm gear of said first drive mechanism;and a motor having a shaft operably engaged to said intermediate wormgear.
 50. The vehicle mirror of claim 47 wherein said intermediate drivemechanism comprises: an intermediate worm gear; a first intermediateworm drive connected to said intermediate worm gear and operably engagedto said first drive mechanism; a second intermediate worm driveconnected to said intermediate worm gear and operably engaged to saidsecond drive mechanism; and a motor having a shaft operably engaged tosaid intermediate worm gear.
 51. The vehicle mirror of claim 47 furthercomprising a programmable controller coupled to said drive mechanismwhich permits storage of information pertaining to the position of saidreflective element, wherein said reflective element can be automaticallyreturned to a position based upon information stored on saidprogrammable controller.
 52. The vehicle mirror of claim 46 wherein saidhousing and said first and second telescopic arms pivot with respect tosaid attachment assembly.